Homeschooling can go two ways – it can be extremely stressful, or it could be a really enjoyable, peaceful experience for you and the kids.
The difference between these two scenarios is having a homeschooling routine set out. This doesn’t mean whether you do science or English first, but setting out a routine for the whole day, from the time the kids wake up.
This lets everyone know what to expect, so there are no arguments or hassles, and it helps you make the most of your time, and hopefully have some leisure time in the afternoon!
Here are some tips on settling into a homeschool routine this new year.
Plan Ahead
It is so important to start your homeschool planning and routine the day before. Take some time at the end of the day to prep for the next day’s lessons. Prep any worksheets that the children might need, take out any stationery, and make sure everything is ready.
This saves you from having to stress about setting it up the next morning while the kids are waiting to get started!
Stick To Bedtime And Wake Up Times
The first step to a routine is waking up at the same time each morning. Going to bed at a decent time, and waking up early in the morning, puts you in the right mindset for the rest of the day. Both the kids and yourself will benefit from getting enough sleep.
Create A Schedule
Following a daily schedule is key to staying in a routine. Set out your morning breakfast times, chores, exercise, school work, reading, and so on. By sticking to this schedule, you and the kids know what to expect each day, and they should just get on with it.
Stick schedules up on the wall for children to follow and to be a part of. For younger kids, you could use color-coded schedules to make it easier for them to understand.
You will waste less time when following a schedule, and hopefully find yourself with more spare time in the day.
Schedule In Some Fun Time
The kids will more likely be willing to stick to a schedule if they have some fun time to look forward to each day. Set some time aside in the mornings for fun exercise, and some time in the afternoon for free play or creative play.
This also gives you a chance to leave the kids to do their own things, fostering their independence, and giving you a chance to get something else done (or just enjoy a cup of tea!)
Stick To Your Guns
There will be some days where the kids resist you when it comes to homeschooling, and days where you feel like you are not up to it either. As difficult as it might be, you need to stick to your guns.
Slipping on the routine often means the kids won’t take it seriously and that it will be more difficult to actually stick to a schedule.
Plan your weekdays, stick to them, and the whole school year will be made that much easier!
